Anxiety in dogs has become more widely recognised in recent years, and many veterinarians now consider it a legitimate health concern rather than a behavioural quirk. Changes in lifestyle, increased time alone, age related issues, noise sensitivity, and past experiences can all contribute to stress in dogs.
When these feelings begin to affect daily life, veterinarians may recommend treatment plans that include training, environmental changes, and, in some cases, medication. Understanding why these prescriptions are used and how they fit into a broader care plan can help owners make informed decisions about their dog’s wellbeing.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Medication decisions must always be made with a licensed veterinarian who can assess a dog’s specific needs. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
The Rise Of Canine Anxiety
Recent data from the Royal Veterinary College found that one in 500 dogs in the UK is now prescribed antidepressants, a tenfold increase from a decade ago. The spike coincides with lifestyle changes that have disrupted routines for pets and owners alike.
The pandemic saw millions of lockdown puppies adopted, and as life returned to normal, many of those dogs struggled when their humans went back to work. This sudden shift left countless dogs unprepared for solitude, triggering anxiety symptoms that many owners had never witnessed before in their companions.
Why Dogs Are Prescribed Medication
Fluoxetine and similar drugs work by raising serotonin levels in the brain, helping dogs feel calmer and less reactive. Dr. Caroline Allen, chief veterinary officer at the RSPCA, explains that dogs can experience a range of emotions comparable to humans.
Common reasons for prescribing medication include separation anxiety, aggression or reactivity, phobias such as thunderstorms or fireworks, and compulsive behaviours like tail chasing, excessive licking or pacing. Recognition of these emotional struggles has improved significantly, allowing vets to offer targeted support for distressed animals.
The Role Of Behavioural Therapy
Veterinary professionals stress that medication alone is rarely the answer. Instead, it forms part of a wider treatment plan that includes behaviour modification and training.
Allen advises working with a qualified dog behaviourist to uncover the root causes of anxiety before starting medication. Drugs on their own are not a panacea, she notes. They should be used alongside positive training and lifestyle changes to address underlying triggers, build confidence and create lasting improvements rather than simply masking symptoms without resolving the core problem.
When Medication Helps Dogs Thrive
In some cases, medication can give dogs the breathing room they need to learn and recover. One RSPCA rescue dog described by Allen had severe anxiety that made training impossible until she started fluoxetine.
They cannot learn when they are in that reactive state, she explained. Once calmer, they can build relationships and new habits. Behaviourists like Jo Sellers, a certified separation anxiety specialist, agree that the medication does not change their personality but allows them to be the same dog, just less stressed and more receptive.
The Caution Against Overprescribing
While many experts support the careful use of antidepressants, others warn against rushing to medicate without understanding the cause. Joe Nutkins, a Kennel Club accredited trainer, notes that anxiety can be misinterpreted.
She has seen herding dogs misdiagnosed as anxious because they were displaying natural behaviours. She worries that relying too heavily on drugs could lead to lifelong prescriptions and missed training opportunities. Some owners also report that their dogs seem sedated or lose appetite while on medication, which can indicate dosage or suitability issues requiring veterinary review.
A Balanced Approach
Experts emphasise that medication can be invaluable in certain cases, particularly when combined with patient training, predictable routines and enrichment activities such as sniffing, playing and problem solving.
Lucy Miller, a veterinary physiotherapist, explains that these are not happy pills but tools that restore balance in the brain. The aim is always to help the animal feel safe and secure. Combining medication with environmental changes and mental stimulation creates a holistic treatment approach that addresses both chemical imbalances and behavioural needs for lasting wellbeing.
What Owners Can Do Instead Or Alongside
Before medication becomes necessary, there are proven strategies that can help dogs manage stress. Structured routines make dogs feel safer with consistency, while mental stimulation through puzzle toys and scent games reduces boredom.
Exercise that fits their breed is crucial since a collie’s needs differ from a pug’s requirements. Calming aids such as pheromone collars, music or safe spaces can help anxious dogs relax. These interventions may prevent the need for medication entirely or enhance its effectiveness when prescribed as part of comprehensive care.
Understanding Animal Mental Health
The rise in canine anxiety medication reflects a broader shift in how we view animal mental health. While some dogs genuinely benefit from antidepressants, experts agree they are only one piece of the puzzle.
Understanding what your dog needs emotionally, mentally and physically remains the most powerful tool for helping them live a balanced, content life. Recognising that animals have feelings too means taking responsibility for their emotional welfare, not just their physical health. This holistic perspective encourages owners to look beyond quick fixes and invest in long term solutions.
